PHD BY portfolio
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
A PhD by Portfolio is an innovative method for attaining a doctorate degree. It can be completed within one year, does not require research and allows professionals with decades of experience to leverage their skills. Candidates obtain academic recognition for pre-existing research, comprehensive research skills and professional subject knowledge that meets a doctoral level.
The programme is completed remotely, suitable for hard-working executives who cannot afford to take time away from work.
A PhD by Portfolio will provide an opportunity to gain a competitive advantage in today’s workforce and the confidence to further career prospects. It will enhance key business skills and make it possible to successfully achieve professional and personal goals.
Online delivery
You will study online with practical learning, projects, and real-time research with Google G-Suite for Education, alongside 80 million educators and students worldwide.
Flexible programme
Unlike traditional universities, we have intakes happening throughout the year. All programmes are totally flexible, and you can work at your own pace and convenience.
Support 24/7
Our Professors, renowned educators, and support team are available to make sure that your journey to attaining a Doctorate is seamless.
Credits
Credits transfers for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) are available, subject to restrictions. Please enquire with our admissions department for credit transfer RPL.
Course Fees
Application fee : € 100 (non-refundable) and Administrative fees: € 100 (paid on acceptance)
Tuition Fees : € 7,490 per year
Discounts available for payments made in full prior to commencing the programme.
Teaching methodologies
Assessment and verification
All units within this qualification are internally assessed by the centre. The qualifications are criterion referenced, based on the achievement of all the specified learning outcomes.
Flexible courses to fit around your busy schedule
Highly qualified and experienced Professors and Mentors available to help you on your path to attaining your PhD by Portfolio.
WHAT IS THE STRUCTURE OF THE PHD BY PORTFOLIO?
The PhD by Portfolio programme is a fast-track programme that takes place entirely ONLINE. Students can complete the programme within 1 academic year. The programme has 240 ECTS (European Transfer Credit System).
Our PhD candidates are guided throughout the entire programme by an experienced Professor and Business Mentor, working to complete 3 research-based projects.
SSBR is accredited by Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges and Universities (ASIC). SSBR has earned Premier status with ASIC for its commendable areas of operation. ASIC is an independent, government-approved accreditation body specialising in the accreditation of schools, colleges, universities, training organisations and online and distance education providers, both in the UK and overseas. ASIC examines the institution as a whole including the administration systems, teaching and delivery of the courses to ensure that the required standards are being met.
Course Breakdown
Project 1 – Leadership and Strategic Management
Project 2 – Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
Project 3 – Specialist Area (Finance, HR, Marketing, Management, Operations, Accounting)
Each project is worth 80 ECTS credits.
Request a brochure with detailed information about our PhD by Portfolio Doctorate Degree here.
WHAT ARE THE LEARNING OUTCOMES?
- To demonstrate knowledge of the most advanced frontiers of a field of work
- To evidence the most advanced and specialised skills and techniques including synthesis and evaluation, required to solve critical business problems and to extend or redefine professional practice
- To develop new ideas or processes at the forefront of work
- To deliver substantial authority, innovation, authority and professional integrity

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS
Master’s degree or equivalent, preferably in a related field
IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 75 (official English exam results) or proof of studying previously in an English-speaking environment for a minimum of 2 years.
Scanned copy of all required academic diplomas, transcripts and certificates
Extensive previous business/professional experience
Photocopy of a valid passport/national ID
Resumé or CV
Reference letters from a former academic institution or from current employer (if applicable)
Students will have to receive employer approval to participate in this programme*
Validity of degrees issued by private institutions in Switzerland
“Validity of degrees issued by private institutions in Switzerland
While higher education in Switzerland is primarily dispensed by public institutions, there are also many private ones. In Switzerland no prior authorisation is required in order to offer higher education courses, organise examinations or issue private degrees. In certain cases, however, the federal or cantonal authorities, depending on their respective area of authority, will supervise private institutions and/or authorise them to offer courses and issue degrees.
Private institutions based in Switzerland that are not accredited under the HEdA may only issue private degrees. Such degrees:
– may be used by the holder to carry out an unregulated profession; appreciation of the value of private degrees is left up to employers.
Generally speaking, there are no international agreements protecting the value of private degrees; in all cases, it is up to the national authorities in the host country to decide whether to recognise foreign qualifications. Private institutions are able to legitimately carry out their activities in Switzerland by virtue of the principle of economic freedom.*
SSBR is authorised by the Canton of Zurich for the provision of quality standards in adult education so the lessons comply with the cantonal regulations.
The Canton of Zurich authorizes SSBR to issue bachelors, masters and doctorate degrees.
* From the State Secretariat for Education and Research SER Directorate
Page 1:
http://www.sbfi.admin.ch/dam/sbfi/en/dokumente/2017/12/titel-privater-institutionen.pdf
*Research Material Confidentiality
All information provided as part of the PhD by Portfolio will be maintained confidential. Only the PhD candidate involved in the project, their mentor/supervisor and head of the research department of SSBR will have access to the information in the research. All information will be stored in compliance with SSBR guidelines. Confidentiality of information provided is subject to legal restrictions. SSBR will retain the candidate’s name on their research to be able to match it across to other data collected on their assignments.
Data will be kept to provide on-going information on the topic. Publication on any sensitive information will only be done with the explicit permission of the author and the company involved; alternatively, the name of the company will not be mentioned. This information will not be used for purposes other than that mentioned and will not be delivered to third parties, in accordance with the data protection principles of the Swiss Data Protection Act 2020 (DPA).
ADMISSIONS 2023
REQUEST INFORMATION
We want to know your specific needs so that we can provide you with the perfect programme solution. Let us know what you require and we will be pleased to help you on your academic journey.